QUEENSLAND’S complex retail trading laws have taken a step towards a simpler model after the Industrial Relations Commission agreed to extend the boundaries for inner-city trading.

From next month, popular shopping complexes like Petrie Barracks and the Kelvin Grove Urban Village will operate on the same restrictions as inner-city retail outlets.

Weekday trading hours have been extended by two hours and shops will open from 7am-9pm.

The extension adds the suburbs to Fortitude Valley, Bowen Hills and Newstead – which are classed as inner city – as the National Retail Association steps up the push to break down the 50 different zones in Queensland.

It is understood the NRA will continue to push for the Hamilton Harbour precinct to have extended hours to cater for tourists who arrive on cruise ships.

The NRA is also in talks with retailers in fly-in, fly-out areas of Queensland about whether there is a need to extend hours to suit miners who arrive at awkward times.

NRA chief executive Trevor Evans said the association would continue to work with the State Government and independent bodies to simplify the trading-hour laws.

“This is a pleasing outcome and a step to simplifying the rules,” Mr Evans said.

“Trading-hour rules in Queensland are the most complex in Australia.

“We now have more consistency through those inner suburbs which are zoned closer to the city.

“There is a conversation to be had with the State Government about cutting more red tape into the future.’’

The move to install longer hours was welcomed by ­shoppers at Petrie Barracks, including Paddington local Anna Ittensohn who said it would make life easier for those who work late.

The CBD itself will remain in its own zone.

The changes only impact medium and large businesses. Small retailers remain able to set their own hours.

In its ruling, the Industrial Relations Commission said there was no reason to knock back the extensions.

“NRA states that both Kelvin Grove and Petrie Terrace are significant inner-city areas of Brisbane and have been identified as areas for urban growth and renewal by the Brisbane City Council,” the judgment said.

“Overall, under this criterion, the material provided is more supportive than not of the NRA’s application.”